– In May 2024,an ASI in Shahdol was killed by being run over by a sand-filled tractor.
– Six months earlier, in November 2023, another official (Patwari) faced a similar fate.
– In Shajapur (2023), a female mining inspector and home guards were assaulted during confrontation with the mafia.
– Use of tractors, JCB equipment, weapons signaling organized crime groups rather than individuals acting out of poverty alone.- Business exceeds crores of rupees per year due to high profits from illegal sand trade; one truckload earns ₹10k-₹30k.
The statements made by Minister Kansana reframing violent operations as acts driven solely by poverty have exposed deeper governance concerns regarding controlling organized crime. While sympathy for economically disadvantaged individuals is valid, incidents involving premeditated violence against government personnel indicate systematic criminal activity rather than isolated acts rooted in desperation. Historically documented fatalities highlight the unchecked escalation despite significant monetary stakes tied to illegal sand mining.
These developments spotlight critical gaps in law enforcement’s ability to curb such harmful practices at their roots while addressing structural economic drivers simultaneously. Additionally,perceptions suggesting political complicity demand impartial inquiry for credible resolution restoring public confidence-a necessary step given accusations impacting bureaucratic integrity.